214 Spring, Hunter, NY

## Overview Nestled high in the Catskill Mountains along Route 214 in Hunter, New York, the 214 Spring is a roadside mountain spring sitting at an elevation of approximately 2,211 feet. Route 214 is notable as New York State's highest-altitude state road, meaning this spring draws from some of the most elevated terrain in the region. Water flows from a black PVC pipe that appears to emerge directly from the rock face, feeding into a small natural pool below — sometimes described by visitors as a little "swimming pool" carved into the landscape. The spring is located on state land that was acquired for forest conservation back in 1909, as indicated by a small sign posted near the site. Surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Catskill Forest Preserve and situated not far from the Devil's Tombstone Campground area, this spring has long been a stop for hikers, campers, and locals who appreciate fresh mountain water. Visitors have reported the water tastes clean and refreshing, consistent with its high-elevation mountain source, though as with any natural spring, water quality can vary with weather and season. The spring is accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, year-round. ## Directions **From the North (via Phoenicia, NY):** 1. Take **Route 28** to **Phoenicia, NY**. There are two exits that lead into Phoenicia — either one will work. 2. Within about 0.2 miles of entering Phoenicia, look for the turn onto **Route 214** (it will be signed). 3. Follow Route 214 south for approximately **10.5 miles** as it climbs into the mountains. 4. You will pass through the **Devil's Tombstone** area, a state campground and day-use area. On the left side of the road, you'll notice a small lake near the end of the park. 5. Continue past Devil's Tombstone. The spring is located roughly **¼ mile past Lane Road**, on the **right side** of the road. 6. Look for a small **"State Land – Forest Conserved – Acquired 1909"** sign on the left side of the road and a mile marker sign reading **"214...1302...1068"** — these landmarks confirm you're at the right spot. 7. There is a small dirt pull-off near the spring. It is not prominently marked, so you may need to pull over and look carefully. You'll see a small ditch area with rocks and a **black PVC pipe** emerging from the rock — that's the spring. **GPS Coordinates:** 42.17871, -74.20236 (approximately 42° 10′ 43″ N, 74° 12′ 8″ W) ## What to Expect The 214 Spring is a modest but charming roadside stop. Water flows steadily from a black PVC pipe protruding from the rock, collecting in a small natural basin below. The setting is quintessential Catskills — dense forest, mountain air, and the quiet of a high-elevation road that sees relatively little traffic compared to the valleys below. The pull-off area is small and unpaved, so parking is limited to one or two vehicles. The spring itself is not prominently signed and can be easy to miss if you're driving quickly — keep an eye out for the state land sign and mile marker mentioned in the directions above. Getting out of the car and walking a few steps toward the rock face will reveal the pipe and pool. The area near Devil's Tombstone Campground offers additional recreation, including hiking trails and picnic areas, making the spring a natural complement to a day exploring this part of the Catskill Forest Preserve. In winter, Route 214 can be icy and conditions at this elevation may be challenging, so plan accordingly if visiting in colder months.